Minister for Communications Denis Naughten TD is welcoming the announcement that 80% of Irish Postmasters' Union (IPU) members have endorsed a landmark agreement with An Post. The Agreement focuses on a renewed vision for the Irish Post Office Network and involves a revised Postmasters Contract. It also includes agreement on a protocol specifically sought by Minister Naughten to help manage the modernisation of the network in a transparent and community focussed manner.

Welcoming the announcement, Minister Naughten extended his particular thanks to Mr Turlough O'Donnell SC and officials from An Post and the IPU executive who have dedicated themselves since January to deliver on this Agreement.

Minister Naughten stated: "I want to commend all parties who were involved in reaching this significant agreement which was secured following 3 months of intensive negotiations under the guidance of Mr Turlough O'Donnell SC. I believe this represents the beginning of a more collaborative approach between Postmasters and An Post. This cooperation will be critical to securing a long term and viable future for the post office network. Today is a positive step in the journey of reinvigorating our national post office network and making it a viable service that meets the needs of communities across the country, particularly in rural areas. The fact that there will be no compulsory closures of post offices is a hugely significant outcome of these negotiations. Any decision to exit or stay in the business will be a decision for each individual postmaster to make."

The deal also accepts that new business lines are required with a focus on financial services and new Government services. It also recognises that the network requires some consolidation and provides for a capital investment plan for the renewal of existing offices. The deal will see An Post invest €50m in growing and modernizing the network and includes agreement on a protocol to help manage the modernization of the network in a transparent manner.

The Minister concluded: "Today's announcement represents the best opportunity to start a new and exciting chapter for the post office network and I look forward to the successful implementation by all parties of the agreement."

ENDS

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